Florida — A cool breeze slides across Tampa Bay this morning, carrying the sharp edge of a changing pattern. The air feels calm now, but winter tightens its grip quickly as the weekend unfolds.
Temperatures rebound today, climbing toward 70 degrees under sunshine. That warmth fades fast. Clouds increase tonight, setting the stage for a shift that arrives early Saturday. By late morning Saturday, scattered showers move through, followed by strengthening northwest winds.
As the system clears, colder air pours into west central Florida. Saturday night turns blustery and sharply colder. Lows fall near 34 degrees around Tampa, with gusts topping 30 mph near the bay and bridges. Wind chills dip into the upper 20s before sunrise.
Sunday feels noticeably different. Sunshine returns, but highs struggle to reach the upper 40s. The breeze keeps it brisk through the afternoon, especially along I-275, the Howard Frankland Bridge, and open waterfront areas. Outdoor plans may need adjustment.
Clear skies Sunday night allow temperatures to fall again. Lows near 33 degrees raise concerns for patchy frost inland. Sensitive plants should be covered, and pets brought inside. Drivers should remain alert early Monday, when cold pavement can briefly turn slick after any moisture.
Meteorologists continue tracking a broad Arctic blast stretching from the Midwest to the Southeast. With the Great Lakes nearly 50 percent frozen, cold air flows south more efficiently, allowing Florida to feel winter’s reach.
Early next week brings relief. Sunshine dominates Monday, with highs near 57. Warmer air returns by Tuesday and Wednesday, pushing highs back into the 60s and low 70s.
Cold snaps have proven deadly across the South this winter. Preparation matters, even in Florida.
Five-Day Outlook for Tampa, FL
Saturday: Showers early, windy, high near 60°F
Sunday: Mostly sunny, breezy, high near 48°F
Monday: Sunny, high near 57°F
Tuesday: Sunny, milder, high near 64°F
Wednesday: Sunny, warmer, high near 70°F
